Ranking the 10 greatest Los Angeles Angels of all time
7. Jim Fregosi, SS (1961-71)
Fregosi was the Angels鈥� first true star as he began his MLB career right when the franchise came into existence in 1961. It didn鈥檛 take long for the shortstop to make a significant impact, as he reached his first All-Star game in 1964, a feat he would also accomplish in five consecutive years from 1966-70. Fregosi鈥檚 most impressive statistical campaign came in 1970 when he hit .278 with 22 home runs and 82 RBIs. As good as he was at the plate, where he remains the franchise鈥檚 all-time leader in triples, Fregosi also made a large impact defensively, earning Gold Glove honors in 1967. His No. 11 is one of five numbers retired by the franchise, in part because he also left a legacy as a manager for the club after his playing career, helping the team to its first-ever playoff appearance in 1979.
